Frenchtown School Board Faces Budget Challenges and Explores Ad Hoc Committees

Overview: The Frenchtown School Board recently entered into discussions about budget allocations, potential tax levy increases, and the formation of ad hoc committees to address specific educational challenges. The board deliberated on the implications of raising the tax levy between 2% to 4.1% and evaluated the impact of such an increase on the community and the school’s financial health. The debate was informed by concerns over maintaining the quality of education amidst budgetary constraints, including potential cuts to occupational therapy, physical therapy, maintenance services, and after-school clubs. The board also considered reallocating funds and exploring alternative funding sources such as participation fees and fundraising initiatives.

Hunterdon Central School Board Embraces Diverse Student Opportunities and Equity Initiatives

Overview: In a recent meeting, the 107 Central Regional High School Board of Education delved into a variety of initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing student experiences and addressing equity, diversity, and inclusion within the school community. The board discussed the success of the girls’ flag football pilot program, the impact of the Red Devil ambassadors in supporting new students, and the positive outcomes of summer programs targeting attendance issues and student skill development. Additionally, the board engaged with public comments on equity audits, the need for safe spaces, and the implications of recent legislative decisions on parental involvement in mental health services.

Flemington Borough Council Tackles Budget and Community Projects

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Flemington Borough Council engaged in a review and discussion of the borough’s draft budget, which is set to increase by approximately $462,000 from the previous year. The proposed budget includes allocations for police department renovations, capital improvements, various equipment purchases, and a potential 3.9% property tax increase. Notably, the council deliberated on a shortfall in the police budget, the high overtime costs, and the debate over funding police equipment, including the purchase of additional cameras and police vehicles.

South Hunterdon Board Addresses School Reconfiguration and Construction

Overview: The South Hunterdon Regional Board of Education meeting spotlighted community engagement concerning the district’s reconfiguration plan, construction progress, and potential school closures. A prominent issue raised was the potential closure of the West Amwell school, which drew strong opposition from community members. Residents voiced concerns about the previous depiction of the school as unsuitable and the idea of placing preschoolers in a building considered substandard. Moreover, the board discussed the construction of the South Hunterdon Regional Elementary and Middle Schools, with completion dates set for June 2024 and March 2025, respectively. The unification of the district mascots to Eagles was another topic of interest. Several updates and reports on the preschool expansion program, district policies, and communication tools were also presented.

Bethlehem Town Council Approves Pension Valuation Change

Overview: The Bethlehem Town Council recently convened to discuss and vote on several financial measures that could impact the city’s budget and services. Among the most items was the request to change the valuation method used for determining the city’s obligation to the fire and police pension funds. The council approved the shift from the market valuation method to the smoothing method for the upcoming two years, a decision aimed at creating a more stable and manageable financial obligation for the municipality.